Top 4 Indica Strains for Relaxing

Sometimes the most enjoyable thing in the world is sitting back, lighting a bowl, and letting every stress you have fall away. Before you can completely zone out and relax into an enjoyable high, you first have to decide what strain you are going to smoke. You might not know this if you're new to cannabis, but not every strain will help you relax. Some strains will energize or provide a social high. Some strains keep you super focused and creative. Other strains are simply a better relaxing weed experience. If you're looking for the best nightcap strain for relaxing, you've come to the right place. We've curated a list just for you.

Common Effects of Cannabis

Let's start by going over the makeup of cannabis and how different strains and terpene profiles produce various results. There are over 400 naturally occurring chemical compounds found within any given cannabis plant, many of which include terpenes and cannabinoids. Terpenes provide the flavor, aroma, and many of the medicinal effects of cannabis. Cannabinoids (which include CBD, THC, and CBN) directly affect the medicinal properties of cannabis, and THC is directly responsible for the psychoactive high you feel when you smoke. Each of these compounds has unique properties and effects; together, they create something called the entourage effect.

Indica or Sativa for Relaxation?

Strains are categorized as Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid to highlight their overarching effects. While the general idea is that each category has a specific genetic makeup, because cannabis has been bred and manipulated by humans for so long, studies have found that designations often do not aptly match their true genetic makeup. What is true, however, is that the general effects remain consistent with categorical descriptions. Indica strains generally provide a full-body, relaxed high, while Sativas usually provide a head high that causes an increase in energy and creativity.

The terpenes found within Sativas vs. Indicas also usually remain fairly consistent. Sativas are much more likely to include terpenes like Terpinolene, Alpha-Pinene, and Limonene. Indicas, on the other hand, are more likely to include Myrcene, Linalool, Beta-Caryophyllene, and Humulene, which are some of the best terpenes for sleep. These terpene profiles, along with cannabinoid composition, help solidify Indica as the best strain to choose if you're looking for a relaxing high.

The Most Relaxing Weed Strains

There are many strains out there that are great for relaxation, and many ways to consume them. Whether you prefer smoking, concentrates, or edibles, these strains are an excellent place to start if you're looking for the most relaxing Indica strain.

Girl Scout Cookies

Commonly known as GSC, this Indica-dominant hybrid was created by crossing OG Kush with Durban Poison, and it is one of the most popular strains on the market. Unlike many traditional Indicas, GSC first produces euphoric, almost-energizing effects but melds into a full-body relaxation that's great for nighttime smoking sessions. This strain, which boasts 19% THC and a Caryophyllene-heavy terpene profile, is commonly used to combat the effects of stress, nausea, and appetite loss. Not only are the effects highly sought after, but GSC also tastes good. It has a sweet aroma and a pungent, minty flavor profile.

Granddaddy Purple

If you're looking for a traditional Indica experience, Granddaddy Purple (aka "Grand Daddy Purp," "Grandaddy Purple Kush," and "GDP") should be one of the first strains on your list. With 17% THC, a Myrcene-heavy terpene profile, and strong full-body effects that result in cerebral euphoria and a dreamy haze, GDP hits hard and is an ideal nighttime strain. It's used to combat stress, chronic pain, insomnia, and muscle spasms and has an enjoyable fruit-forward flavor profile of grape and berry.

Purple Widow

A cross of White Widow and Purple Power, this Indica-dominant hybrid strain is an exceptional strain for those looking to relax without falling asleep immediately. It produces a giggly, relaxed high known for helping treat stress, depression, and appetite loss. It features 18% THC and a Myrcene-heavy terpene profile and has an enjoyable woody aroma and spicy, fruity flavors.

Cannatonic

Unlike the other strains on this list, Cannatonic is a CBD-forward strain. Made from crossing MK Ultra with G13 Haze, this Indica features 9% CBD, 4% THC, and a Myrcene-heavy terpene profile. As these numbers suggest, you're not likely going to get as high from this as other strains. However, that doesn't mean this won't help you relax. You can expect a quick, mellow high that causes heavy relaxation for a short period of time, which means this is a perfect strain for anyone who wants to take a quick nap or slow down in the afternoon. The flavor profile for Cannatonic is also delightful, with a woody aroma and spicy, pine-heavy flavor profile.

Do you use cannabis to relax at the end of a long day? Let us know what strains you prefer and if you enjoy going to sleep on edibles or by smoking. Comment below!